Be Aware of Your Impact – The Power of One #5

Be Aware of Your Impact – The Power of One #5

How many people to you affect a day?

Do you know?

Remember from our previous encouragements that you affect the lives of others each day. It might be a small impact, but it makes a difference.

This morning I stopped by Panera Bread to get a cup of coffee, and when I pulled to the window, the server handed my coffee to me with a smile and said, "Have a blessed day." The voice tone fit the words, and the smile was genuine; that slight gesture made an impact.

If you do not think that gesture made an impact, remember, you are reading about it. It made an impact.

For most of us, our lives are on autopilot. We may not know the impact we have on others. Regarding the example above, did I remember to say thank you when I went through the drive-through? I did. Each of us must be conscious of the small actions that make a big difference. It seems for some; they are not always conscious of the impression they are making.

Having self-awareness of our actions towards others is an essential step in learning to maximize our impact and to make doing great things possible - no matter somewhere we are.

Allow me to share a few ways you may already make an impression. These might be a few ways you have not considered yet, but they serve as a reminder.

(1) Influencing Others - People observe our behavior and listen to what we say. Through our actions and words, we are affecting those around us in ways we may not have considered. Your encouragement and positive comments can affect the lives of the people around you.

(2) Providing Acts of Service - Doing things for others is part of being a member of a family, a church, a community, or just being a friend. We may not realize how much our acts of service impact others' lives until we hear about it later or see the results. Helping someone in a time of need or being a dependable person, who others can count on, is not only admirable, but it builds trust and boosts self-esteem for those we serve.

(3) Providing Solutions - People are looking for solutions. Everyone can find a problem, but very few will offer a proper solution. Are you the "Answer Man" in your circle of influence? Do you like solving problems and finding a way through when things seem stuck? As a problem-solver, you can be a great resource to those who feel stuck in a situation. You can offer them a light at the end of the tunnel or just show them the proper way to go. Providing a solution can assist others in becoming successful.

(4) Providing Peace - Are you able to be the calm in the storm? Are you a comforter? Some people can create peace and comfort for others amid life's storms? Providing peace for people when they are feeling out of sorts is a meaningful way to help others. People like having someone trustworthy to lean on in a time of need. Having a trusted friend in a time of trouble makes an unsurpassed impact on a person's wellbeing.

These are only a few of the ways to remind you how you can make a positive impact on others. I am sure there are countless other areas you can think of that make an impact.

What other ways can you think of that help to make a positive impact on others? I am sure you are doing some right now and they are not only having an immediate impact, but a lasting impact.

Have you ever looked back and wondered about your impact?

Something to think about and an action to try

One of the best ways to reflect on your influence is through record keeping. I am not saying that you must record every moment, but a reflection upon your activities provides for a lasting look.

A great way to reflect on our influence is through journaling.

Journaling is something many look at in different ways. Some will journal every day and keep more like a diary. Others will use journaling to store ideas and thoughts for later reflection. Either way, trying it may help to keep you encouraged as you reflect upon your influence.

Try this for two weeks - Journal your activities for two weeks and keep track of the ways you are affecting the people in your life. While two weeks may not be a long time, it might open your eyes to the achievements you make each day.

When you reflect upon on your journal, you will notice your habits. So, be sure to watch each habit for the evidence of your daily impact.

Record your events during the day and see what influence you have on others.

Did you notice someone smile back at you today?

Did you encourage someone today?

What activities do you take part in weekly to better yourself and others?

How much does your presence contribute to their success?

Remember, sometimes you may not notice the influence you have because you are so focused on living, but be more conscious of your actions, and you will see a significant impact. I believe it is important to remember that you are making an impact every day. When you remember that and add some deliberate intent, you can realize your impact and learn to recognize its value.

What will you do today? What impact will you make on those around you?

To your success,

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Be Aware of Your Impact – The Power of One #5

Change Starts with You – The Power of One Series – Part #2

Change Starts with You

Change is a word that many people fear. However, change is necessary to growth and opportunity.

Beginning to create change and make a difference starts with one person and their behavior… You!

The knowledge that one person’s behavior is able to create change and make a difference in other’s lives may feel both overwhelming and empowering. However, while it might seem overwhelming and empowering, you must remember this is part of the process of growth and opportunity.

On one hand, putting focus on yourself can feel more comfortable than believing the entire world must change for something great to happen. On the other hand, it can feel like an immense mountain to climb all by yourself.

You must remember not to lose heart while doing good.

If you are changing for the better, do not lose heart. It is rewarding to know the best way to create change in others and the world, is by changing yourself first. Creating change in yourself begins with personal responsibility.

Take note that being responsible for your actions is the beginning step on the road to influencing others.

When you change, others see a positive change, and the results that follow, they want to make a positive difference as well.

Here are some words found in the back of No More Mondays by Dan Miller (page 241) (Amazon Link) attributed as found on a tomb dated A.D. 1100 of an Anglican Bishop at Westminster Abbey:

When I was young and free, and my imagination had no limits,
I dreamed of changing the world.
As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change,
so I shortened my sights somewhat and
decided to change only my country.
But it, too, seemed immovable.

As I grew into my twilight years,
in one last desperate attempt,
I settled for changing only my family,
those closest to me, but alas,
they would have none of it.

And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize:
If I had only changed myself first,
Then by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement,
I would have been able to better my country and,
who knows, I may have changed the world.

People make their most significant impact in areas that mean the most to them. A child who struggled with not having enough food to eat growing up might grow to be an adult who works to end hunger. Someone who didn’t have access to education might spend their time promoting literacy.

Creating personal change makes a difference in life. Each one goes through personal trials, struggles and more.  The ability to create change and take place, even in the storms of life. When tragedy strikes, there are usually two reactions people experience: (1) depression, or (2) an urge to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

People are different in the manner they handle situations. Two people can face the same situation and have radically different reactions. One person may fall into deep depression and retreat from life, and the other may use their issue as a starting point for making a difference.

Our desire is to create positive change in our lives so we can assist others in making positive chance in theirs.

There are as many unique ways to make a positive change in other’s lives. You can start to make a positive change by asking yourself a few questions:

  • What is something about which you feel strongly?
  • In what ways do you naturally give your time and your resources to help others?
  • What are you gifting to others?
  • In what areas of your character do you receive the most compliments?
  • What events have happened in your life to create space for concern and empathy for others?
  • What are the things you know how to do that can make life easier for others?

Beginning with these questions will start your thinking about what matters to you. They will help you also answer what personal and unique experiences you have had that can help you make an impact.

You can start with the answers to these questions to realize that you already have the tools to do something, somewhere, that will ripple forth and make a change for the better.

When you realize you have the tools and the experience, you can move forward with confidence that you can make an impact, and that no matter how insignificant you feel in the grand scheme of things, you are vital and very much needed.

So, what are you willing to change, positively to extend your impact to those around you?

Just some thoughts,

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A Few Wednesday Thoughts

A Few Wednesday Thoughts

The video below is part of the message I delivered to the congregation on Wednesday Night. The message contains updates about the happenings of our congregation, but it also includes five points to consider on not giving up.

Since March 2020, many congregations have been dealing with the effects of the Coronavirus or COVID-19. It has been challenging for eldership to make the proper decisions relating to meeting or not meeting. Some congregations continued to meet, others went to an online or virtual service, and some went to parking lot services using an FM transmitter.

Each congregation chose the means necessary for the physical safety of their membership. The decisions were challenging. I know of elderships who stressed over the decisions and still do this day. The decisions were met with prayer for the proper decision and the effects it might have on the congregation.

While the elders were making tough decisions, the members were trying to decide how to keep in touch with one another while still maintaining the social distancing guidelines. Each state had their own social distancing guidelines and the federal government was busy adding suggestions. The guidelines meant smaller groups for some congregations and closed doors for others.

As our congregation has used virtual meetings and we also met back when able, However, because of an increase in local cases, along with members coming into contact with those effected by the Coronavirus/COVID-19, our elders have canceled our in-person meetings and go to an online, all-virtual format.

In these uncertain times, allow me a moment to share with you a few reminders:

    • The early church struggled through various physical persecutions and made it. We can make it through this too.
    • The church, throughout generations, has been met with great difficulties, yet it continues to grow and meet.
    • The church building is a building and it will be there when we get back to normal meeting times.
    • The members of the church should use technology to keep up with one another during this time.
    • It is important to maintain your Sunday and Wednesday routine to take advantage of online services.
    • Spend time in prayer daily.
    • Technology is a useful tool which can be used by members of the to continue to encourage and "fellowship."

It is my hope that this video brought you motivation in this uncertain time. May each one of us continue to walk in the faith and find ourselves in the love of God.

Just my thoughts,

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Noah – Whiteboard Children’s Bible Class

Noah – Whiteboard Children’s Bible Class

Over the past few weeks, our Whiteboard Children's Bible classes have found their way into many homes, congregations and places we may never know. We are thankful to provide you with a way to view a short Bible lesson to encourage you.

These lessons are designed for children, but some have found these to be a great refresher no matter what age. Each lesson gives an overview and is not meant to be an in-depth analysis of the topic, place or person of note. We hope you will take time to review the lesson and then find yourself opening your Bible to study the lesson.

This lesson is about Noah. Enjoy the video lesson.

Thank you for watching the Whiteboard class on Noah. Be sure to check out the other videos on the Preacher's Pen YouTube Channel.

Just some thoughts,

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Maybe It’s What We Needed

Maybe It’s What We Needed

While we would never wish harm and turmoil on others, maybe these uncertain times can teach a valuable lesson.

As Christians we must be aware the world is always full of turmoil and chaos. (Matthew 24-25) Many times Christians do not understand all that happens in the world because we focus our minds on heaven. (Colossians 3.2)

Christians are blessed with a unique perspective because we set our minds on higher things; the things of God. When we are focused on heaven, we understand the things of the Earth will pass away. (1 John 2.17) This focus on eternity is something we need to renew each day. (2 Corinthians 4.16-18)

Many times, the turmoil we see in the world allows us to see the frailty of life. When we see the pain, uncomfortableness this world has experienced, we long for heaven. As Solomon, we can see the toil from our labors and realize the most important thing is,

“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”  (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

Life is short. Are we ready?

Uncertain times like we are in help us to realize the shortness of life, we must be ready for everlasting life. Are you ready?

Just a thought,

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